Cirrhosis of the liver is a serious and potentially fatal condition, which can cause several complications. Some of the complications of cirrhosis are increased risk and severity of infection, malnutrition, affect on brain function.

Cirrhosis is a progressive disease and there is no cure for it, however, the progress of the disease can be slowed down by treatment of the underlying liver disease, avoiding alcohol, taking hepatotoxic drugs, etc. In general, the overall median survival rate in cirrhosis is approximately 10 years.

Cirrhosis can be prevented, in most cases, by avoiding risk factors for cirrhosis (such as excessive alcohol intake) and taking precautions to prevent infection with hepatitis B and C virus. Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus can be prevented by getting vaccinated. Other ways to prevent hepatitis B and C are using condom during sex, avoiding sharing drug needles or other equipments.

Diagnosis of cirrhosis is confirmed by tests. Tests are done in cirrhosis to assess the extent of liver damage and the probable cause of cirrhosis as well. Some of the tests that may be done in cirrhosis include liver function test, imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scan, biopsy of the liver and endoscopy.

Consult a doctor if you have one or more symptoms suggestive of some significant medical problem or liver disease, such as loss of appetite, feeling tired (fatigue) or exhausted, nausea and vomiting, jaundice and swelling of legs and abdomen.

Cirrhosis is a disease of the liver in which the healthy liver cells are destroyed and replaced by scar tissue. There are many causes of cirrhosis, but an excess of alcohol consumption and chronic hepatitis B or C infection are the most common causes. There is no cure for cirrhosis and treatment aims to improve its symptoms, manage complications and prevent the condition from getting worse.

Cirrhosis in the early stages may cause no symptoms. Symptoms become evident after liver damage becomes extensive. Some signs and symptoms of cirrhosis are fatigue, loss of appetite, bleeding easily, easy bruising, itching, jaundice, oedema and ascites (fluid accumulation in abdomen).

There is no cure for cirrhosis. Treatment aims to improve symptoms, manage complications, treat the underlying cause and prevent the condition from getting worse. In the case of severe liver damage, liver transplant may be needed.